Shangri-La Altitude Sickness: Your Guide to Prevention & Treatment
Understanding Altitude Sickness
What is altitude sickness (AMS)?
Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common ailment that can affect travelers ascending to high altitudes too quickly. It occurs because the air at higher altitudes contains less oxygen. Your body needs time to adjust to this lower oxygen level. When visiting Shangri-La, understanding altitude sickness is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Why Shangri-La is a Risk
Shangri-La, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,300 meters (10,800 feet), poses a significant risk for altitude sickness. The rapid ascent, whether by plane or bus, can quickly expose travelers to lower oxygen levels, making them susceptible to AMS. Many travelers arrive in Shangri-La directly from lower altitude cities, not giving their bodies adequate time to acclimatize. This makes awareness and proactive prevention key.
Prevention Tips
Preventing altitude sickness is far easier than treating it. Here are some essential tips for your trip to Shangri-La:
Acclimatize gradually
The best way to prevent altitude sickness in Shangri-La is to acclimatize gradually. If possible, spend a few days at a moderate altitude before arriving in Shangri-La. Consider spending a night or two in Lijiang (around 2,400 meters) before proceeding to Shangri-La. Once in Shangri-La, avoid strenuous activities for the first 24-48 hours.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding sugary drinks and excessive caffeine. Aim for at least 3-4 liters of water daily.
Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity
Alcohol can exacerbate dehydration and mask the symptoms of altitude sickness. Avoid alcohol for the first few days in Shangri-La. Similarly, strenuous activity can put extra strain on your body, making it harder to acclimatize. Take it easy and avoid vigorous hikes or exercises until you feel comfortable.
Symptoms and Treatment
Recognizing symptoms
Being able to recognize the symptoms of AMS is vital. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them seriously.
When to seek medical help
Mild symptoms can often be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a day or two, seek medical help immediately. Severe symptoms include:
- Severe headache that doesn’t respond to pain relievers
- Persistent vomiting
- Shortness of breath, even at rest
- Confusion
- Difficulty walking
- Coughing up fluid
These symptoms may indicate High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which are life-threatening conditions requiring immediate medical attention.
Medication and Oxygen
Acetazolamide (Diamox)
Acetazolamide, commonly known as Diamox, can help prevent and treat altitude sickness. It works by increasing the rate at which your body acclimatizes to the altitude. It’s important to consult your doctor before taking Diamox, as it can have side effects. If prescribed, start taking it a day or two before ascending to Shangri-La.
Portable oxygen concentrators
Portable oxygen concentrators can provide supplemental oxygen, which can help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. These devices are available for rent or purchase and can be particularly useful for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or those who experience severe symptoms of AMS.
For a complete overview of this region, see our main guide to Shangri-La: The Gateway to Tibetan Culture in Yunnan. When planning your trip, be sure to check out our advice on Shangri-La Itineraries: Planning Your Perfect Trip.
